POLL: Cycling Popular, Province-Wide Support for Cycling Investment

NRG Research Poll Surveys Attitudes towards Cycling in BC

May 06, 2013

VANCOUVER, BC – A new province-wide poll confirms that cycling is a popular mode of transportation among British Columbians and that there is wide support for increased investments in cycling infrastructure, education & promotion across BC.

Almost 70% of adults in BC cycle at least once a year, 42% cycle at least once a month and 25% ride at least once a week. The poll results show 42% of respondents would support $75 million per year in provincial funding for bicycle paths and lanes, and other investments to increase cycling in BC communities while only 29% are opposed.

The province-wide poll was conducted by the NRG Research Group on behalf of the BC Cycling Coalition (BCCC), HUB and the Greater Victoria Cycling Coalition (GVCC). The BCCC recently released a comprehensive Cycling Strategy for BC, which outlines some of the key investments that the Province should make in cycling tourism, infrastructure and education.

The poll indicates a strong public interest in cycling, and a broad desire to cycle more often when and if facilities are accessible, convenient and comfortable. More bicycle paths separated from traffic is one of the most likely factors in encouraging people to cycle more, with 65% of respondents saying separated bicycle paths were very or somewhat important to them. These findings are consistent with UBC’s Cycling in Cities study in Metro Vancouver. Access to bike paths that are connected to local tourist attractions and amenities also played a role in people cycling more at 66%.

“This poll confirms findings similar to other studies and experiences in cities world-wide: Having safe cycling infrastructure – especially paths separated from traffic – plays a major role in encouraging people to cycle more.” says BC Cycling Coalition President Richard Campbell. “A significant proportion of British Columbians see a role for the provincial government when it comes to increasing funding for cycling.”

The poll indicated strong support for cycling education funding with 59% percent responding that it is very or somewhat important.

“Combining infrastructure improvements with cycling education has been shown to dramatically increase safety and cycling as a mode share, compared to just providing infrastructure alone.” notes Erin O’Melinn, Executive Director of HUB: Your Cycling Connection. “Implementing a comprehensive cycling strategy that incorporates infrastructure improvements, education & promotion would make cycling more attractive and increase the environmental & economic benefits that it brings to communities across British Columbia.”

“The GVCC and other cycling advocates want to make cycling appealing to people of all ages and abilities – from school children to seniors,” says Ray Straatsma, of the Greater Victoria Cycling Coalition. “Achieving that will require major new investments in cycling infrastructure, cycling tourism and education – and cooperation from all levels of government to build communities that are cycling friendly for all residents.”

Surveys were distributed to respondents on-line. Survey programming, hosting and data collection was undertaken by NRG Research Group. The survey was available between April 11th and April 15th, 2013. In total, n=463 interviews were completed and the survey took on average, 7 minutes to complete. Results were weighted (by gender, age and location), to reflect the general population of British Columbia.

The BC Cycling Coalition (BCCC) is the leading provincial voice for cycling working with governments and other organizations to enable more people of all ages ride bicycles more often for transportation, recreation and tourism. The BCCC and its twelve member organizations represent thousands of people who cycle in communities across B.C. bccc.bc.ca

Richard Campbell

President, BC Cycling Coalition

Cell 778-891-1764 | Twitter @bccycle

About HUB: Your Cycling Connection

HUB is a charitable non-profit that makes cycling better through education, action and events. More cycling means healthier, happier, more connected communities. We’re leading the way in making cycling an attractive choice for everyone. bikehub.ca

Erin O’Melinn

Executive Director, HUB: Your Cycling Connection

Cell: 778-239-7252 | erin@bikehub.ca

About the Greater Victoria Cycling Coalition

The Greater Victoria Cycling Coalition (GVCC) is an all-volunteer organization in Victoria, BC, Canada dedicated to getting more people cycling more places, more often. We focus on advocacy, promotion, participation and education in the Greater Victoria area. gvcc.bc.ca